During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
